Alexander Spotswood

Alexander Spotswood, (1676-1740) was a British colonial administrator; he served as lieutenant governor of Virginia (1710-1722). A modernizer, he founded the ironworks at Germanna; improved tobacco production; sought peace with Indians; and fought piracy. His land policy encouraged settlers rather than speculators. He later served as deputy postmaster general for the 13 colonies (1730-1739).